The Los Angeles Dodgers have restructured their roster for the 2025 season, following a successful World Series run, but face challenges with injuries plaguing their pitching staff. Michael Kopech, acquired from the Chicago White Sox, is now at risk of starting the 2024 season on the injured list due to lingering elbow inflammation.

Despite being productive in the postseason and pivotal in the Dodgers' championship journey, Kopech's offseason progress has been slowed by health issues in his family. As he remains uncertain about his readiness for Opening Day, the Dodgers must navigate these setbacks, particularly with Evan Phillips also recovering from a rotator cuff injury.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured a one-year, $13 million deal with right-handed reliever Kirby Yates, enhancing their already formidable roster for the 2025 season. This acquisition continues the team's strategy of building a superteam poised for a strong World Series run, particularly after Yates demonstrated exceptional performance last year, posting a 1.17 ERA over 61⅔ innings with 33 saves for Texas.

Yates joins a well-rounded bullpen that includes closer Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen, alongside returning pitchers Michael Kopech and Alex Vesia. The Dodgers are also bolstering their starting rotation with free-agent signing Blake Snell, as well as established arms like Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Clayton Kershaw. The depth of the pitching staff positions the Dodgers as frontrunners to win consecutive World Series titles, a feat not achieved in 25 years.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant addition to their bullpen, signing Kirby Yates, the former Texas Rangers closer, to a one-year, $13 million deal with an extra $1 million in performance incentives. This acquisition comes as the Dodgers ramp up their offseason efforts, bringing their payroll to an unprecedented $379 million, which would set an MLB record.

Yates, coming off a stellar season with a 1.17 ERA, joins a crowded Dodgers bullpen that already includes Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen. Despite having a strong relief core, the Dodgers are expected to make further adjustments to their roster as they navigate the complexities of roster management, especially considering the injuries and options available for their relievers.

The Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines by signing right-handed pitcher Kirby Yates, enhancing their already formidable bullpen. This roster move comes as the team anticipates the potential absence of reliever Michael Kopech, who might miss the first month of the upcoming season due to forearm inflammation, although no structural damage was found. Kopech, who played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 2024 World Series triumph, posted an impressive 1.13 ERA after joining the team midseason last year. His performance included six saves, showcasing his value as a closing option.

Kopech's transition from the Chicago White Sox to the Dodgers has been remarkable. He ended the 2023 season with a 4-0 record with the Dodgers, complementing his prior nine saves with the White Sox. While he had limited playoff experience, he delivered a solid showing in the postseason, contributing crucial innings during the World Series.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a strong move this offseason by signing closer Tanner Scott to a four-year deal worth $72 million, making him the top reliever available in free agency. Scott, previously with the Miami Marlins, has transformed into one of the best high-leverage pitchers, boasting a remarkable 2.04 ERA over the past two seasons and averaging 97 mph on his fastball.

Despite control issues, with a 12.2% walk rate last season, Scott's performance has attracted significant interest from teams. His role with the Dodgers may see him primarily as a closer, although competition exists within the bullpen. His signing is a pivotal addition for a team expected to contend for another World Series title.